By Tola Gbadamosi

In a heartfelt tribute to service and sacrifice, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, celebrated Christmas with personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at NAF Base Maiduguri.

The occasion seamlessly blended operational assessments with festive celebrations, underscoring the critical role of NAF personnel in safeguarding national security.

This statement was made available to The Hope Metro by Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force: “The day commenced with a ceremonial inspection of the Quarter Guard, followed by strategic briefings at the Headquarters Air Component (HQ AC) Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) and 105 Composite Group.”

Air Marshal Abubakar commended the troops for their unwavering commitment to counterinsurgency efforts, highlighting their instrumental role in weakening insurgent capabilities.

A subsequent facility tour spotlighted significant progress in operational readiness and welfare initiatives, reaffirming the NAF’s dedication to its personnel and mission objectives.

At a Durbar that transitioned into a Christmas Luncheon, Air Marshal Abubakar lauded the NAF troops as “the shield that protects the vulnerable and the force that stands between chaos and stability.”

Acknowledging the challenges of spending the festive season away from loved ones, he paid homage to fallen heroes, vowing that their sacrifices would remain etched in national memory.

The CAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support of the armed forces, citing welfare improvements, platform acquisitions, and capacity-building programmes that have enhanced the NAF’s operational effectiveness.

He also appreciated key stakeholders, including the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, and the Shehu of Borno, for their collaboration and unwavering support.

Governor Zulum, represented by Professor Usman Tar, delivered a goodwill message, commending the NAF for their pivotal role in Northeast security and humanitarian interventions, particularly during recent flood disasters.

He described the personnel as inspirations for future generations and pledged continued state support for their efforts.

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC) further highlighted the achievements of the Air Component under Air Marshal Abubakar’s leadership, applauding the provision of advanced air power capabilities and welfare enhancements.

The AOC assured the CAS of the troops’ unyielding commitment to peace restoration in Borno and across Nigeria.

The event featured entertainment, the exchange of goodwill, and the presentation of souvenirs.

More than a celebration, it underscored the NAF’s resolve to protect Nigeria’s peace and stability, fostering solidarity among its ranks during a festive season marked by selflessness and duty.